Men's Health

Men Experience Depression Differently from Women

Depression is a serious medical condition that affects your mood, thoughts, and even your body. Symptoms of depression are reported more often by women than men. Nonetheless, it affects more than 6 million men.

Research has shown that while both men and women can develop the standard symptoms of depression, they often experience the illness differently. Also, men and women may have different ways of coping with symptoms.

Do You Know the Signs of Depression?

Symptoms of depression include:

Sadness, anxiety, or a feeling of emptiness that doesn't go away

Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness

Lost interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities

Fatigue or lack of energy

Trouble concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping

Changes in appetite and/or weight

Thoughts of death or attempting suicide

Restlessness or irritability

Persistent physical symptoms, such as headaches and chronic pain.

Men may be more willing to admit fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work or hobbies, and sleep problems than feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and guilt.

In addition, men are more likely than women to report alcohol and drug problems. It is unclear whether these problems are a symptom of depression or just a health concern that commonly develops in men. Nonetheless, alcohol and drug problems can make depression harder to recognize.

Treatment Helps Relieve Depression

Many treatments have been effective in treating people with depression. The first step in this process is to see your doctor. He or she will give you an exam to rule out any other possible causes of your symptoms. A viral infection, thyroid problems, or low hormone levels can cause the same symptoms as depression.

If no cause for your symptoms is found, your doctor will then evaluate you for depression or refer you to a mental health specialist.

Various treatments are available. They include medication and talk therapy.

While getting professional care, you can also try these tips to help fight depression:

Try light exercise, such as walking.

Get outside of the house. Go to a movie, a ballgame, or participate in religious, social, or other activities.

Set realistic goals and break large tasks into small ones.

Spend time with other people and find someone to confide in.

Expect your mood to improve gradually, not right away.

Postpone important decisions.

Accept help from family and friends.

If you think that you might be depressed, consult with your physician for more information.

Online Resources

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October 2009

When You Dread Certain Days

If you have gone through trauma or had a loss, the anniversary of the event can be painful. The date may trigger anxiety, anger, sadness, or negative feelings about the world. A certain day also may bring on physical problems such as headaches, chills, or stomach pain.

If a certain time of year fills you with unhappy memories, you may find comfort in this advice:

Remind loved ones what the day means to you. Suggest practical ways they can help, such as being with you on the day.

Plan to do something positive that day. Make a donation, volunteer, or take time for yourself at a park or museum.

Give yourself a week or two to feel better after the anniversary. If your unhappy feelings linger, talk with your doctor or join a support group with people who share the same experience.